The FCB1010 tops many lists for MIDI foot controllers because of its versatility, features, and budget-friendly price tag. Key Features: MIDI sequencers will use this note data to send information in sequence to play melodies, chords, and beat sequences in the case of drum machines. The only thing I would worry about is the large data encoder, it is also well built, but seems like it could handle less abuse than the rest of the controller. Often all someone might want is to be able to change patches or programs instantly without the hassle of having to program them into the device beforehand. This is where the Tech 21 MIDI Mouse pedal shines.

On its face, it has 10 preset switches, 2 channel switches for guitar amps, and 2 expression pedals. MIDI connectivity has in and out/thru as generally expected, but also features MIDI merge functionality. Out of the box it has a preset to do what I wanted: activate notes on a soft synth. It's six notes on pedals 1-6 running from E to C. Worked immediately with my Arturia soft synth through Logic, no drivers or other nonsense necessary. I immediately set about programming a new preset the get closer to a full chromatic scale. You can't, of course, with only ten pedals, but who really needs C# and Eb? Well, I do, but not that often. So the preset runs E, F, G, A, B, D on pedals 1-6 and F#, G#, Bb and C on pedals A-D. This will work on a lot of music I play. As with all gear in this modern era, there are a number of options to choose from with various formats and features. We help you narrow the field and help you choose the right foot controller for your needs. Turn the Data Encoder to select the Preset*, to which you would like to save, then press the Encoder button or press [Preset] to cancel the save operation. Now the 3-character display will show the current Program value for the selected Stomp Switch and the active step.

SUPPORT KNOWLEDGE BASE

There are enough presets (26) that you can control a wide variety of devices without having 100 presets you forgot about. The Studiologic MP117 is a well-built MIDI pedalboard controller. The price is a bit on the steep side, but when you consider the features and playability it does carry quite a lot of value with it as well. As with the the instructions for assigning program change messages, we will start with a template preset. Although I was very impressed by the range of non-DAW-specific functionality that Nektar have managed to cram into the Pacer, it remains, at heart, a floorboard DAW control surface and excels in that role. However, the extent of its integration or compatibility with your preferred DAW will determine the extent of its capabilities in that regard. It is very well built. Metal chassis, foot switches feel very solid and are quiet. Heavier than I expected which is a good thing. Nice rubber treads on the bottom to keep it from sliding. Profile of the pedals seems about right though I did accidently catch the rotary knob with my foot once or twice while operating. Spacing of the pedals is good. For my size 10 1/2 shoe -- not a lot of extra room, but not too tight either. Responsiveness of switches is very good. It has the appearance of durability. Time will tell, of course.

This is much like a piano roll you would use in a DAW, but one that would play external gear. In addition to these basic musical parameters, MIDI messages allow the user to interact will all components of a particular instrument coded for MIDI including program changes and complex patch settings in an instant. MIDI foot controllers allow the player to control other instruments and gear by sending musical control messages in MIDI format with a foot pedal. MIDI stands for Musical Instrument Digital Interface. Linking and configuring the Nektar Pacer to Ableton Live is not too complicated, and once you have them paired together you can control the software's settings from your midi foot controller. Programming this controller is rather easy. I have seen some people saying it’s difficult, but it’s really not. Once you get your first thing programmed it all follows the same easy formula to program. The Pacer's rear panel features a MIDI out port and numerous footswitch, expression pedal and relay outputs. Set The ControlsAfter step 5, in the instructions above, instead of pressing the Encoder button, follow these steps: The Nektar Pacer is a highly versatile midi controller and is a powerful instrument when used in combination with Ableton Live. This midi foot controller has a great selection of features that make it perfect for your Ableton Live setup.